Question

A generator supplies 5.0 103 kW of power. The output potential difference is 4500 V before it is stepped up to 510 kV. The electricity travels 400 mi (6.44 105 m) through a transmission line that has a resistance per unit length of 4.1 10-4 /m. (a) What percentage of the power is lost through transmission of the electrical energy along the line? %

(b) What percentage of the power would be lost through transmission if the generator's output potential difference were not stepped up? (What does this answer tell you about the role of large potential differences in power transmission?) %

Answer 1